It was about time the Scout, although a quality case at the time, got an overhaul. The case needed a USB 3.0 connector and there were some redesigns to ensure all cards fit inside. Let’s see whether the new Scout is a worthy successor.

The new Scout is available in two colors – Gunmetal Grey and Full Midnight Black. The left panel has a different window but both have been redesigned. Of course, the case comes with a handle that made the original famous.

We’d like to thank Cooler Master Balkans, who’ve made sure we received the Scout 2 in Gunmetal Grey, our color of choice. Note that we took pictures in direct sunlight – light reflections depend on materials and our shots emphasize the contrast between metal and plastic.

Most of the front panel is meshed, which is common for modern cases. The company went for a design that relies on wide frames, angled lines and curved edges that gave the Scout 2 some character.

The case has three 5.25’’ bays on the front and room for two 120mm/one 140mm fan. The plastic has somewhat of a matte finish so dust and prints will not be a big problem.

The front panel has another mesh in the back serving as dust protection. It’s much finer so you won’t see it until you really take a closer look.

5.25’’ bay covers must be taken out from the inside of the front panel, so any changes will require removing front panel it.

Taking off the front panel is easy and only takes the usual tug on the bottom. However, the Scout 2 is only 1cm off the ground and we had to lift it before doing so. The picture below shows the bottom part of the front panel much better.

The front panels has a CM Storm logo as well as another detail – a red LED. It’s very faint though so it didn’t bother us, not even in the dark. However, it’s not connected to the built in LED toggle switch so it cannot be turned off – unlike the one in the rear panel fan.

A nice layout, although it would perhaps be practical if the LED shined towards the I/O panel – it would make finding your way around in the dark much easier.

The Scout 2 supports all the latest and greatest standards – two USB 3.0 connectors, two USB 2.0 connectors, audio out and mic in. The sliding lid helps protect the connectors from dust.

The I/O panel and its connectors look well made. We’ve seen cases that come with sloppily implemented panels and melted plastic but CM Storm’s Scout 2 is as clean as a whistle.

The front panel will take two 120mm or a single 140mm fan. A 14cm fan can be mounted in the front panel in two positions – top or bottom, so users can choose where it suits them best.

CM Storm used toolless mechanisms for 5.25’’ devices. The locking mechanism is simple yet effective as it locks drives using pins instead of screws.

The top panel and the handles were what gave the original Scout much of its character, and long it may continue.

The handle is rubber coated and comfortable. We didn’t find any info on how much the handle can take, but we got the impression that it would easily handle the Scout 2, even if we filled it with rocks.

The handle was moved backwards, which provided better balance when carrying the case. Once it’s is filled with gear, the weight will balance itself nicely.

The top panel has two USB 3.0 connectors, two USB 2.0 connectors, audio out, mic in, power, restart and LED toggle controls. The Scout 2 is a mid tower case, 51.7cm tall, so we had no trouble reaching the controls when we put it under the table.

The top panel has air exhausts with removable dust filters.

Note that the filters are held in place with clips that must be handled with care so as not to break them.

This filter doesn’t have any finer mesh on the inside, as is the case with the front panel. The top panel holds room for two 120mm fans, but they don’t come stocked.

We wanted to see the top of the case and build quality so we removed the plastic.

What we’ve seen is a job well done. There isn’t a single inch of sloppy execution to be found and everything is tight with no sharp edges.

The Scout 2 has rethought its predecessor’s panels and moved the fans to the bottom, so as to provide better cooling for graphics cards. The window is tinted and is large enough to provide a look at the most interesting part of your rig.

The left side panel will take two 120mm fans.

The side panels are designed to allow as much room inside as possible. Fans on the side panel will not get in the way of graphics cards and the case is left with much more room for cables.

The side panels are held in place with two screws. The panels are sliding ones and are easy to take off and put back, but we though a latch on the side panel, like the one on HAF XM, would've been a useful and welcome addition.

The Scout 2 has 7+1 expansion slots on the rear panel. The eight one has a special cover called the Storm Guard, and it’s great protection against those who think about stealing your mouse or keyboard. The top of the panel has two watercooling holes, often used to route cables. Hier is housed a 120mm fan, the only one that comes stocked with the Scout 2.

The expansion slots are sealed, which does indeed suggest military style design. Almost all the cases we’ve tested lately came with mesh covers for improved airflow.

There is a dust filter placed underneath the PSU spot, but although it can be removed without opening the case, it’s difficult to take out. Again, we had to lift the case since 1cm is not enough room to squeeze in our fingers. We had the same problem with CM Storm Trooper.

The Scout 2 is stable on its feet, which may be a bit on the short side. The used rubber prevents vibration and sliding.

The three 5.25“ slots come with simple but sufficient locking mechanisms. The pins are long enough to keep 5.25’’ devices in their place.

The two HDD cages combined hold up to seven 3.5’’, or six if you choose to use one 2.5’’ HDD/SSD.

The Scout 2 can take any graphics card, courtesy of a removable HDD cage. The limitation is 287mm / 11.3 inch (with HDD cage); 399mm / 15.7 inch (without HDD cage). The original Scout didn’t support graphics longer than 270mm.

The Scout 2 doesn’t have the 5.25’’-to- 3.5’’ adapter that came with the original Scout. Once you remove the top HDD cage, you’re left with three 3.5’’ slots. If the adapter was there, we’d get an additional 3.5’’ slot. The top HDD cage can also house a 120mm fan, on the side facing the graphics card.

The rails Cooler Master chose are well made, but made for 3.5’’ only. We’d rather see those from the Trooper, since they can be used for both 3,5’’ and 2.5’’ formats. The Scout 2 comes with a single 3.5-to-2.5’’ carrier, that takes two 2.5’’ drives.

The Scout 2 supports CPU coolers up to 162mm tall. The Hyper 612S we chose for our testing is 163mm tall and fit inside, but barely. In general, this should be enough, because there are plenty of quality coolers below 162mm.

Users should mind the width of the CPU cooler as well. Please ensure that the width of your CPU cooler does NOT exceed the upper edge of your motherboard, or you might experience interference with the top fan on the Scout 2.

The picture below clearly shows that Hyper 612S cooling didn’t like them top panel fans.

The Scout 2 supports up to nine fans, but comes with a single, rear panel fan.

CM Storm based its decision on the fact that gamers like to build their own rigs and use their own fans, rather than rely on factory stocked ones. This is quite understandable and is something CM Storm could think about next – quality gaming fans for its cases.

The LED lights in the fan are on a separate power and can be controlled independently.

PSU will sit on rubber feet that are designed to stay in place. Foam based feet tend to fall out quickly

The Scout 2 will take pretty much any PSU, where longer than 155mm would require taking off the bottom panel fan. Still, mounting the fan here won’t be simple, what with all the cabling.

Cable management was thought out well and the holes are not blocked by motherboards. There’s plenty of room for cables behind the motherboard tray. Side panel design introduced even more room, so it was a convenient place to hide excess cabling.

On top of the motherboard tray are two holes – CPU power and fan cabling.

Locking and loading the Scout 2 was easy. Knowing our test board, EVGA’s X58 FTW 3, we made sure to mount the CPU cooler before throwing the board inside. We thought we probably won’t be able to put the cooler in later, although to be fair, EVGA X58 FTW 3’s CPU socket is almost on the edge of the board. All in all, we had fun setting up the Scout 2.

Side panels are easy to work and the side panel window gives a nice view of the Scout 2 innards.

The original Scout launched two years ago, but age has caught up with it. Lacking room and USB 3.0 connectors were reason for an overhaul and voila – the Scout 2 is here. The Scout 2 left a good impression – all in all it’s a well thought out and meticulously implemented mid tower case.

The Scout 2 kept the army-style looks but the company mellowed it out with some modern curves. Just like its predecessor, the Scout 2 has a carrying handle for easy transport.

There are some minute details that could be improved, such as dust filter handling and the likes, but the build and finishing touches are quality. It’s obvious that Cooler Master’s tradition is in good hands and the Scout 2 proves it.

Unfortunately, instead of beating the Scout, the Scout 2 falls short when it comes to cooling. However, it’s only because it comes with a single fan, while the Scout had three. CM Storm thinks most gamers go for the fans they choose and that stocking the Scout 2 with more than one was unnecessary. We must admit that we aren’t quite of that opinion, as we’d rather have the full package.

While true that practically every inch of the case breathes quality, we’d say the pricing is a bit too steep. The original Scout is available for about €70, which is €20 less than the “new guy”. The price of €96 can buy you a HAF XM case that packs more room and gear.

Having said that, the Scout 2 is a quality case we’d recommend to any gamer or user looking for a quality mid tower case. In f act, the only reason we’d tell you to hold out for a bit more would be the price. If you find it at about €85, don’t hesitate to snatch it up as the Scout 2 will serve you well and for a long time to come.

Thermal Solutions specialist GELID Solutions reveals its first tower case from its GAMER product line. The case is dubbed “Dark Force” and boasts 0.7mm SECC steel body and a long list of advanced features. Since gamers like to show off, Gelid included a large acrylic window on the side panel.

Gamers usually make sure that a case has enough room for their graphics and whether it packs good cooling. Dark Force thankfully has enough room but if you need more, you can remove the HDD cage, leaving 410mm of room. Dark Force will take CPU coolers up to 165mm, meaning that most high-end CPU coolers will fit easily.

Dark Force can take up to eight fans but although Gelid Solutions is famous for quality fans, the case comes with only two. Namely, it has two 120mm fans – on the front and the other on the rear panel. Gelid also threw in two included internal fan extension PCBs.

The bottom panel will take a 240mm fan whereas the rear panel features 8+1 slots for peripheral devices. The I/O panel houses USB 3.0, two USB 2.0 ports, eSATA and a hotswap unit for 3.5” or 2.5” devices.

“No compromises were made in the design of this case, no costs were cut in order to provide PC enthusiasts looking to upgrade or replace their desktops with a high quality build“, said Gebhard Scherrer, Sales Director of GELID Solutions Ltd.

The case is RoHS and WEEE conform and carries a 2-year warranty. It is available now and has a MSRP of USD 119.99 or Euro 91.

Today we’ll review one of the few computer cases that rocked 2010 – BitFenix Colossus.

As you can see, the design is futuristic but the case really refreshed the top-end case segment. The company behind the case is made up of experienced individuals, but the case itself tells the story much better.

There is no doubt that Colossus’ design is instantly recognizable. Note that BitFenix launched two more versions at users’ requests at the beginning of December. These cases are codenamed Colossus Venom and Colossus Window.

The original Colossus, which is on our test today, is available in white and black. A really nice touch is the option to change colors of the LED lights on the case by a simple press of a button.

Naturally, looks aren’t the only thing to grace the Colossus – it comes with SofTouch (rubber coated surface), S3 storage compartment, two USB 3.0 connectors, LEDs and many others that we’ll detail later on. The case is priced at €160 and you can find it on caseking.de here.

Colossus Venom Edition case kept the original Colossus looks and features. The main difference, at users’ requests, is the choice of LEDs. Namely, you have a choice between green and red LED lights, whereas the original colossus comes with green and blue. Colossus Venom Edition is currently available only in black, but it’s priced the same as the original.

As the name would suggest, Colossus Window Edition is the same Colossus case but with a side panel window. As you can see from the picture below, Colossus Window will be available in three colors. This model is cheaper as it lacks a few features found on the original Colossus. You can find it here priced at €140.

There’s no doubt that Colossus is a charmer, especially with the lights turned on. LED lights can switch from blue to red and cover the front and the sides of the case.

The front panel is opened by a simple tug. BitFenix used SofTouch material for the front ant top panels, and it’s nice and soft on touch. The rest of the case, i.e. the construction and side panels are made of steel.

You can place the door the way you see fit, as you can see from the picture below.

The bottom part of the front panel has air holes for ventilation whereas the top part is reserved for five optical device spots.

The front fan comes with a large, removable dust filter. All 5.25’’ meshes are also strapped with filters.

Mounting optical devices requires removing the entire front panel and the procedure is the same when you want to clean the dust filters.

The S3 compartment can be used to store some smaller items and you’ll find its lock on the front panel.

You can lift the lid on the S3 compartment without having to remove the front panel.

The compartment hols the On/Off and reset keys, audio-out and mic-in jacks, eSATA connector, two USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0 connectors. Colossus and Colossus Venom cases come with two of each, whereas Colossus Window only comes with USB 2.0 connectors.

Lighting is controlled via the LED power key and the dual-mode key for color switching. Furthermore, Colossus is capable of incremental, dynamic changes in LED lighting intensity.

We found it pretty handy that the case comes with fan RPM controller. Apart from the two mounted 230mm fans, Colossus can take another two 140mm fans.

The back of the case reveals that the PSU is located on the bottom. Colossus has eight slots for expansion cards and four holes for water cooling systems. The rear panel does not come with any fans.

Colossus comes with two preinstalled fans; one 230mm which draws air on the front panel and one 230mm fan that pushes hot air out the top panel.

Colossus is a massive case which is best seen when compared to other large cases such as CoolerMaster HAF-X. As you can see from the picture, HAF-X is taller than the Colossus but it is not wider.

Before we take a look inside the Colossus, we have to say a few words about the unusual side panels on this case. Namely, both side panels are made of metal and are very heavy and tough. BitFenix wanted to make sure that the panels will take heavy blows without damaging the large LED panel, which can be seen on the picture below.

The LED panel is covered with thick plastic, also for protection.

The LED panel requires power via the 2-pin cable. As we already said, the panel can glow red or blue.

The space inside the Colossus is divided in three parts, i.e. space for motherboard and PSU, space for storage and optical device chamber.

Thanks to the bundled adapter, you can use 5.25 inch bays to house a 3.5’’ or 2.5’’ drives.

All the 5.25 slots come with tool-free locking mechanisms, securing the drive from both sides.

The HDD tray can take up to seven 3.5’’ or 2.5’’ drives.

Two large 230mm fans take care of cooling and airflow. BitFenix arranged a push-pull combination where the front panel fan draws air and the top panel one pushes it out of the case. We must admit that the white color of the fans is a pretty nice touch.

The Colossus will take up to four fans but you can use up to 6 is you replace the 230mm with two smaller ones.

Colossus is a high-tower case and packs room for 8 expansion cards. The locking mechanism requires no tools to operate and will keep any card firmly in place.

The PSU is on the bottom of the case where it is seated on rubber feet for preventing vibration noise. The air outlet below the PSU has a dust filter, which can be removed without having to open the case – a simple tug from the back of the case will suffice.

The bottom of the case features an additional air outlet with a dust filter. If you chose to do so, you can use another 12/14cm fan here. The case is about one centimeter from the floor.

BitFenix left plenty of holes on the motherboard tray, in order to make cable management easier. Furthermore, the company left notches for tying cables, something that many other high quality cases can’t brag with.

The Colossus’ fan controller has six connectors, which means that it will cover any possible fan configuration.

As you can see, there is enough room between the side panel and motherboard tray to keep all the cables that clutter the inside of the case.

Colossus is a large and comfy case and we had no trouble in equipping it with our test hardware. However, we had a few complaints so we’ll start with those.

As the picture suggests, we couldn’t remove the mounted CPU cooler from the back. Although the CPU socket hole is pretty large, the MSI P35 Platinum’s CPU socket is positioned relatively high. We first blamed CoolerMaster’s cooler since it uses thick screws for 775 sockets.

Unfortunately, it appears that this is not an isolated case as we had the same problem with EVGA’s X58 FTW 3 and Prolimatech Armageddon. It appears that BitFenix’s measurements were less than ideal and we didn’t even attempt to remove the Armageddon from the back. The following picture shows that it’s impossible.

You can see several holes for cable management on the pictures and we must admit that some should’ve been wider than they are now. After we used one to route several basic cables, it was simply too narrow for other cables you might want to manage.

Still, we must say that the cable management notches are a nice touch. As you can see, there is plenty of room to hide the unnecessary cabling.

Another nice touch is the channel on the front panel, which can be used to route USB cables to the S3 compartment. This will definitely come in handy when you don’t want your mouse or keyboard stolen. You can route the cable(s) to the USB port(s) in the compartment and then lock the compartment to prevent theft.

The HDD trays handled themselves pretty well with 3.5’’ drives, meaning they were fixed and were not vibrating. However, we didn’t like the way in which 2.5’’ drives behaved. Namely, the plastic trays are easily bent and it only takes a slight bump for the tray to fall out. However, BitFenix said that retail versions of the case will come with sturdier trays. The trays will take 3.5 and 2.5 inch drives. This means that Colossus will take up to eight 3.5 or 2.5 inch drives.

As we mentioned earlier, Colossus has two USB 3.0 connectors on the front panel. Naturally, this will require routing cables from the case’s control panel and connecting them to the ports on the motherboard’s I/O panel. The following picture shows the case’s USB 3.0 control panel and the way we routed the cables.

You can use water cooling holes to connect the USB 3.0, which is exactly what we did.

The rear panel will take a 14cm fan if you choose to mount it, but 12cm fan is also possible. Unfortunately, there are no holes intended for 12cm ones so you'll have to improvise by using the mesh - still, it can be done.

BitFenix thought about users who don’t have a USB 3.0 motherboard and thus included USB 2.0 adapter cable that allows for using USB 3.0 ports at 2.0 speeds. Colossus also comes with two external USB 2.0 connectors which are connected to the standard USB header on your motherboard.

The tool-free locking mechanism is made of plastic but it's massive and sturdy, i.e. it won't break any time soon. However, it does lack precision and we sometimes had to resort to stronger pushing in order to lock it. Thankfuly, when it locks there are no problems whatsoever.

As far as space goes, there plenty to go around. As you can see, it's relatively easy to install an HD 5970, the biggest graphics card on the market.

Colossus will take any large CPU cooler and not even the tall Prolimatech Armageddon with a massive fan managed to reach the side panel.

CoolerMaster Hyper Z600 cooler had about 2cm between it and the side panel.

As far as cooling performance and noise go, BitFenix did a good job – the included fans do a good job and are quiet.

As we said earlier, Colossus’ fan speed regulator can take up to six fans and will handle up to 15W. The connectors are in the back of the case.

Users seem to have been interested in why the cables on their BitFenix chassis seem to short. BitFenix’s answer was:” Internal cables are bundled together on the production line before shipping. This is not in any way a recommended method of cable routing, but rather just a way to keep things neat and tidy in transit. We recommend users to cut the pre-assembled cable ties and route each cable separately to free up extra length and to ensure a better looking build.”

We must say that we didn’t like the lack of a printed manual as BitFenix only offers the pdf version. However, I found it really strange not hearing a mechanic click that indicates the locking of optical drives.

We’ve tested many cases and the tool free mechanisms usually follow one or the methods – either the drives need a push or require a handle tug to one side. BitFenix used a combination of these but the mechanism, as you can see from the picture, would not suggest so.

So – you’ll have to press the button and while pressed pull the button left or right. Obviously, this is not something that can be done with one hand, as the mechanism doesn't operate very smoothly. Thankfully, the mechanism holds firm and your drive will not fall out regardless of what circus acts you may decide to perform with the case.

We saw that the topmost optical drive bay left scratches on the sides our optical drive, as the bay is pretty narrow. The other bays are fine.

We realized that the scratches were actually not caused by the mechanism, but rather a rogue screw which portruded from the mount.

Another thing that may happen is for the fans and LEDs to remain on after you turn the computer off. BitFenix addressed this and said:”Early revision control PCBs on the Colossus exhibit this issue on certain motherboard/power supply combinations.In these cases, stand-by power (5VSB) from the PSU will cause the Colossus control PCB to wake up, or refuse to shut down entirely."

3. Turn on EuP/ErP features in the BIOS to ensure that stand-by power never exceeds 1W

We must say we were pleasantly surprised with what is BitFenix’s first case. Sometimes success is dictated by the first product, and if that’s any measure of quality then BitFenix is looking at a bright future. Colossus is a beautiful futuristic case that will surely tickle the imagination of many LED effect lovers. Of course, looks aren’t everything – but Colossus does well in functionality test as well.

The case comes with two large 230mm fans that will be enough for most users. What’s important is that the fans provide good airflow and their RPM can be controlled via the included fan controller. We were picking hairs a bit and found few minor flaws, but all in all this is a good, quality case.

If you’re looking for a good looking case with plenty of room, quality cooling and plenty of space, then ignoring Colossus would be a colossal mistake. You can find it listed here.

Colossus Venom Edition case kept the original Colossus looks and features. The main difference, at users’ requests, is the choice of LEDs. Namely, you have a choice between green and red LED lights, whereas the original colossus comes with green and blue. Colossus Venom Edition is currently available only in black, but it’s priced the same as the original.

As the name would suggest, Colossus Window Edition is the same Colossus case but with a side panel window. As you can see from the picture below, Colossus Window will be available in three colors. This model is cheaper as it lacks a few features found on the original Colossus. You can find it here priced at €140. http://buy.fudzilla.com/a595561.html

There’s no doubt that Colossus is a charmer, especially with the lights turned on. LED lights can switch from blue to red and cover the front and the sides of the case. colossus-front-0.jpg colossus-front-0-1.jpg colossus-front-0-2.jpgThe front panel is removed by a simple tug. BitFenix used SofTouch material for the front ant top panels, and it’s nice and soft on touch. The rest of the case, i.e. the construction and side panels are made of steel.

colossus-front-1.jpg

You can place the door the way you see fit, as you can see from the picture below. colossus-front-2-1.jpgThe bottom part of the front panel has air holes for ventilation whereas the top part is reserved for five optical device spots. colossus-front-2.jpg

The front fan comes with a large, removable dust filter. All 5.25’’ meshes are also strapped with filters.

colossus-front-3.jpgMounting optical devices requires removing the entire front panel and the procedure is the same when you want to clean the dust filters. colossus-front-4.jpgThe S3 compartment can be used to store some smaller items and you’ll find its lock on the front panel.

top-panel-2.jpgYou can lift the lid on the S3 compartment without having to remove the front panel. colossus-front-0-3.jpgThe compartment hols the On/Off and reset keys, audio-out and mic-in jacks, eSATA connector, two USB 2.0 and two USB 3.0 connectors. Colossus and Colossus Venom cases come with two of each, whereas Colossus Window only comes with USB 2.0 connectors.

Lighting is controlled via the LED power key and the dual-mode key for color switching. Furthermore, Colossus is capable of incremental, dynamic changes in LED lighting intensity.

We found it pretty handy that the case comes with fan RPM controller. Apart from the two mounted 230mm fans, Colossus can take another two 140mm fans.

colossus-front-0-4.jpg colossus-front-0-5.jpg cosmoss_left1_1.jpg colossus-front-0-6.jpgThe back of the case reveals that the PSU is located on the bottom. Colossus has eight slots for expansion cards and four holes for water cooling systems. The rear panel does not come with any fans. colossus-front-0-7.jpgColossus comes with two preinstalled fans; one 230mm which draws air on the front panel and one 230mm fan that pushes hot air out the top panel.

Colossus is a massive case which is best seen when compared to other large cases such as CoolerMaster HAFX. As you can see from the picture, HAFX is taller than the Colossus but it is not wider.

Inside the case

Before we take a look inside the Colossus, we have to say a few words about the unusual side panels on this case. Namely, both side panels are made of metal and are very heavy and tough. BitFenix wanted to make sure that the panels will take heavy blows without damaging the large LED panel, which can be seen on the picture below.

colossus-panel-1.jpg colossus-panel-2.jpg

The LED panel is covered with thick cardboard, also for protection. colossus-panel-3.jpg colossus-panel-4.jpg

The LED panel requires power via the 2-pin cable. As we already said, the panel can glow red or blue.

colossus-panel-6.jpg

The space inside the Colossus is divided in three parts, i.e. space for motherboard, PSU and optical device chamber. Thanks to the bundled adapter, you can use 5.25 inch bays to house a 3.5’’ or 2.5’’ drives. colossus-inside.jpg

colossus-dvd-tray1.jpgAll the 5.25 slots come with tool-free locking mechanisms, securing the drive from both sides.

colossus-dvd-tray2.jpgThe HDD tray can take up to seven 3.5’’ or 2.5’’ drives. colossus-hdd-tray1.jpg colossus-hdd-tray2.jpgTwo large 230mm fans take care of cooling and airflow. BitFenix arranged a push-pull combination where the front panel fan draws air and the top panel one pushes it out of the case. We must admit that the white color of the fans is a pretty nice touch.

colossus-top-fan.jpgThe Colossus will take up to four fans but you can use up to 6 is you replace the 230mm with two smaller ones. Colossus is a high-tower case and packs room for 8 expansion cards. The locking mechanism requires no tools to operate and will keep any card firmly in place. colossus-pcle-lock.jpgThe PSU is on the bottom of the case where it is seated on rubber feet for preventing vibration noise. The air outlet below the PSU has a dust filter, which can be removed without having to open the case – a simple tug from the back of the case will suffice. colossus-psu-1.jpg

The bottom of the case features an additional air outlet with a dust filter. If you chose to do so, you can use another 12/14cm fan here. The case is about one centimeter from the floor. colossus-psu-2.jpg

BitFenix left plenty of holes on the motherboard tray, in order to make cable management easier. Furthermore, the company left notches for tying cables, something that many other high quality cases can’t brag with. colossus-back-1.jpg

The Colossus’ fan controller has six connectors, which means that it will cover any possible fan configuration.

As you can see, there is enough room between the side panel and motherboard tray to keep all the cables that clutter the inside of the case.

Colossus is a large and comfy case and we had no trouble in equipping it with our test hardware. However, we had a few complaints so we’ll start with those. test2.jpgAs the picture suggests, we couldn’t remove the mounted CPU cooler from the back. Although the CPU socket hole is pretty large, the MSI P35 Platinum’s CPU socket is positioned relatively high. We first blamed CoolerMaster’s cooler since it uses thick screws for 775 sockets. test-3.jpg

Unfortunately, it appears that this is not an isolated case as we had the same problem with EVGA’s X58 FTW 3 and Prolimatech Armageddon. It appears that BitFenix’s measurements were less than ideal and we didn’t even attempt to remove the Armageddon from the back. The following picture shows that it’s impossible. test-4.jpgYou can see several holes for cable management on the pictures and we must admit that some should’ve been wider than they are now. After we used one to route several basic cables, it was simply too narrow for other cables you might want to manage. test5.jpg

Still, we must say that the cable management notches are a nice touch. As you can see, there is plenty of room to hide the unnecessary cabling. test8.jpgAnother nice touch is the channel on the front panel, which can be used to route USB cables to the S3 compartment. This will definitely come in handy when you don’t want your mouse or keyboard stolen. You can route the cable(s) to the USB port(s) in the compartment and then lock the compartment to prevent theft. test9.jpgThe HDD trays handled themselves pretty well with 3.5’’ drives, meaning they were fixed and were not vibrating. However, we didn’t like the way in which 2.5’’ drives behaved. Namely, the plastic trays are easily bent and it only takes a slight bump for the tray to fall out. However, BitFenix said that retail versions of the case will come with sturdier trays. The trays will take 3.5 and 2.5 inch drives. This means that Colossus will take up to eight 3.5 or 2.5 inch drives. test-6.jpg test-7.jpgAs we mentioned earlier, Colossus has two USB 3.0 connectors on the front panel. Naturally, this will require routing cables from the case’s control panel and connecting them to the ports on the motherboard’s I/O panel. The following picture shows the case’s USB 3.0 control panel and the way we routed the cables. colossu-usb-30-board.jpgYou can use water cooling holes to connect the USB 3.0, which is exactly what we did. test10.jpg

BitFenix thought about users who don’t have a USB 3.0 motherboard and thus included USB 2.0 adapter cable that allows for using USB 3.0 ports at 2.0 speeds. Colossus also comes with two external USB 2.0 connectors which are connected to the standard USB header on your motherboard. test11.jpg grafa1.jpg

Colossus’ fan speed regulator provides control of maximum 6 fans allowing adjustment from 12V to 9V. The additional fan connectors are hidden in the back of the case. Slika konektora

ConclusionWe must say we were pleasantly surprised with what is BitFenix’s first case. Sometimes success is dictated by the first product, and if that’s any measure of quality then BitFenix is looking at a bright future. Colossus is a beautiful futuristic case that will surely tickle the imagination of many LED effect lovers. Of course, looks aren’t everything – but Colossus does well in functionality test as well.

The case comes with two large 230mm fans that will be enough for most users. What’s important is that the fans provide good airflow and their RPM can be controlled via the included fan controller. We were picking hairs a bit and found few minor flaws, but all in all this is a good, quality case.

If you’re looking for a good looking case with plenty of room, quality cooling and plenty of space, then ignoring Colossus would be a colossal mistake. You can find it here priced at €160.